Flash Movie Review: St. Vincent

There was a time you could find a commune in the heart of a big metropolitan city. It was called an apartment building; I should know, because I grew up in one of them. Everyone knew everyone else in the building; in fact, it was not uncommon for a neighbor to give a quick knock on the back kitchen door and walk right in since we kept our doors unlocked during the day. Before I was able to walk down the stairs by myself I would scoot down them on my backside to visit a neighbor on a different floor. If someone could not get out to the grocery store, they would easily find a resident who was willing to go for them. Babysitting was simple because there were a multitude of parents who would willingly help each other out day or night. I loved growing up in an apartment building though it did spoil me. When I moved out on my own I just assumed all places were similar to my childhood home. Unfortunately that was not the case. From the time I was born to the time I moved, a change starting to take place. It appeared as if the world was moving faster with less time to socialize. I had some new neighbors who would offer a friendly hello; but I had others who barely acknowledged anyone, wearing an uninviting scowl on their face. RECENTLY divorced mother Maggie, played by Melissa McCarthy (The Heat, Mike & Molly-TV), had no choice but to impose on her next door neighbor Vincent, played by Bill Murray (Lost in Translation, Moonrise Kingdom). At first glance Vincent would be the unlikeliest candidate to babysit anyone’s child. Maggie’s son Oliver, played by newcomer Jaeden Lieberher, would soon find out Vincent was not like any other babysitter he had before. This film festival winning comedy had a lot going for it. Though I have seen Bill in similar roles, he really took charge and owned his character Vincent. He was a fun, wicked character to watch throughout the story. Melissa finally decided to take on a different kind of character; I actually liked the fact she played a straight role here without her usual schtick that she had done in her recent films. Add in Jaeden’s touching performance along with Naomi Watts (The Impossible, King Kong) as Daka and this picture had more to offer than your typical comedy. There were several scenes that were dramatic and moving for me. I may not have had a neighbor living next door to me like Vincent; but I sure would not mind one now after seeing this super film.

3 1/4 stars

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About moviejoltz

From a long line of movie afficionados, one brother was the #1 renter of movies in the country with Blockbuster, I am following in the same traditions that came before me. To balance out the long hours seated in dark movie theaters, I also teach yoga and cycling. For the past 3 years, I have correctly picked the major Oscar winners... so join me as we explore the wonder of movies and search for that perfect 4 star movie.

I’ve seen the previews to this movie a couple of times at the movie theater, and I think it looks like humor and pathos – two of my favorite film combinations!! Can’t wait to see it!
I grew up in a very small town in southeast Texas in Grimes County, and we never locked a window or a door. My family made sure I said hello to every person I met, and the only strangers in town were the hobos who rode the rails and jumped off occasionally to get a bite to eat at my grandmother’s house. She never refused.
Different times. I miss them.

Like you, there were certain things from our childhood that are sorely missed in these current times. I hope you get to see this film and I would love to hear what you thought of it. Thanks again for taking the time to leave your comments and share your story with us.

You are too kind, thanks for the kindness you have shown me. If it means anything I have friends who look at the star rating; if it is above their minimum, they save the review to read after seeing the film. lol Once again thank you so much for the props and comments.

Cooking and road movies would be under the emotional aspect, like comedy or drama. If you have not seen Chef or The Hundred Foot Journey; I think you would like them or at least get hungry. lol As for my ratings they go from 1 to 4. I think there is a tab towards the top that talks about my rating system and another about my background. Thanks again for your comments.

Thank you for your reply!!
I’ve seen Chef last week. You can’t imagine my face when I saw the title AND the truck… I didn’t have to think any longer 🙂
I’ll check the other one. (And I hope it’s not a bad drama because I can’t do sad these days :).
Great to know about the ratings!
Have a nice day!

Hi Lindy, You certainly have picked a couple of movies from the opposite sides of the film spectrum. I am thrilled you loved St. Vincent and cannot wait to hear what you think of Kill the Messenger. Thanks for the stopping by to leave your comments.

I really liked this film, too! The characters are mainly likable and well rounded. The Vincent character has so much hidden, each layer shown as they are peeled open. Melissa did great, too. My favorite film with Melissa is called, “Spy.” It shows her in a position of knowing much, while later proving to be a capable spy.
I liked the way the characters develop in this! 😀